Coyotes Southwestern Grill

When Coyotes Southwestern Grill opened its doors in 1993, it was a breath of fresh air — and fresh food — in a town long known for mostly European meat and pasta dishes.

With a funky Santa Fe decor, and a Southwestern U.S./Mediterranean-inspired menu, Coyotes had instant appeal with people who liked a restaurant that reflected their own healthy, outdoor lifestyle.

It’s paid off as, the restaurant, co-owned by founder Trudy Allan and longtime associate Kathy Johnson, is a winner in the Banff Restaurant category of the 2012-13 Readers’ Choice Awards.

“The big thing is everything we make is fresh,” says Johnson.

The restaurant has separate menus for breakfast, lunch and dinner — all of which make use of many locally available foods under the direction of executive chef Lucas Johnson in a cross-cultural food fusion.

Breakfast favourites include huevos rancheros, stuffed french toast and a breakfast burrito with spicy chorizo sausage, served with freshly squeezed juice and dark-roasted specially blended coffee.

There are always lunch specials, including a popular half sandwich and soup or salad, house-made bread and fresh cornbread with soups and chili.